Positioned among the natural spoils of the Southern Highlands, Mittagong combines its natural landscapes with vineyards, colonial buildings, antique and specialty stores and immersive wilderness treks through national parks. This town is a gateway to challenging mountain hikes but also pampers your stomach with wineries and fine-dining restaurants.
Things to do in Mittagong
Adventurous travellers flock to Mittagong because of its prime location near Mount Gibraltar, an 863-metre-tall mountain considered to have been formed by a collapsed volcano. Reaching the peak not only reveals mesmerising views of the town and countryside but also gives you the opportunity to see native trees and wildlife.
Sixty Foot Falls and Forty Foot Falls, named after their respective heights, are the two main waterfalls around Mittagong. You can reach both via well-signed and relatively easy hiking trails, which take you deep into a lush forest. If you’re hunting for that perfect mountain view, head to Katoomba Lookout on Mount Alexandra, which overlooks the undulating Blue Mountains.
Cool-climate wines prosper in Mittagong, thanks to the high altitude. You can enjoy ample tastings at the cellar doors around town, such as the family-run Artemis Wines, which focuses on European-style wine. The Fitzroy Inn, built in 1830, also serves local wine as well as hearty Australian fare.
Feel like some shopping? Make a beeline for the Mittagong Antiques Centre, home to vintage furniture, jewellery, rugs, electronics, clothing and other historic collectibles. It’s right across the road from many of Mittagong’s top dining spots, including The Shaggy Cow and Fire Drum, known for its rustic cuisine and creative cocktails.
Getting around Mittagong
Mittagong is under two hours from Canberra via car and a 1.5-hour drive or two-hour bus ride from Sydney. The town is also serviced by long-distance buses and trains that stop at Mittagong railway station. You can walk around the town centre but will need a car to explore further afield.